Lakers 22-23 L Fx15 (2025)

: Over a crucial 15-game stretch during this run, the Lakers boasted the number one defensive rating (107.5) in the NBA. Playoff Magic

The season began in darkness, with a winless 0-5 stretch that marked the worst start of LeBron James's career. By mid-season, the team was mired under .500, struggling with a roster that lacked defensive depth and reliable shooting. Lakers 22-23 l FX15

: Following the deadline, the Lakers closed the season with an 18-9 record , winning two out of every three games. : Over a crucial 15-game stretch during this

: They dethroned the defending champion Golden State Warriors, also in six games, becoming the first 7th seed to reach the Western Conference Finals since 1987. : Following the deadline, the Lakers closed the

: They upset the 2-seeded Memphis Grizzlies in six games.

Entering as the 7th seed via the Play-In Tournament, the Lakers stunned the world:

In the 2022-23 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers orchestrated a historic turnaround that defied a after a dismal 2-10 start. While the core was led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, a critical part of their identity was the emergence of Austin Reaves , often affectionately (though controversially) nicknamed "AR-15" for his jersey number and sharpshooting. The Descent and the Deadline